Worldcoin, a cryptocurrency project led by Sam Altman, is facing a 90-day suspension in Portugal over data privacy concerns. The country’s National Data Protection Commission (CNPD) has temporarily banned Worldcoin from collecting biometric data, particularly from minors, citing worries about privacy and the protection of personal information.
Worldcoin utilizes Orb devices to scan users’ irises in order to create unique digital IDs and issue cryptocurrency rewards. However, this innovative approach has raised red flags with regulators in Portugal, leading to the suspension of Worldcoin’s activities in the country.
The CNPD’s decision comes after an investigation was launched on March 8 following reports of unauthorized data collection, especially involving minors. The commission deemed the processing of minors’ biometric data as unlawful and raised concerns about potential violations of GDPR rules.
Paula Meira Lourenço, the president of the CNPD, stressed the importance of protecting citizens’ fundamental rights, especially those of the younger population. This suspension in Portugal adds to the list of regulatory challenges that Worldcoin has faced globally, including suspensions in Kenya and investigations in Argentina.
This development highlights the ongoing debate surrounding technological innovation and privacy rights, particularly in the realm of digital identity and cryptocurrency. As Worldcoin navigates these regulatory hurdles, the balance between innovation and data protection remains a key issue in the industry.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as Worldcoin addresses the CNPD’s concerns and works towards resolving the suspension in Portugal.
